ELSA SCHIAPARELLI HAUTE COUTURE ROBE À LA TRANSFORMATION
ELSA SCHIAPARELLI HAUTE COUTURE ROBE À LA TRANSFORMATION - Image 2

ELSA SCHIAPARELLI HAUTE COUTURE ROBE À LA TRANSFORMATION

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Elsa Schiaparelli

Robe à la transformation

Silk crepe

France, c. 1936-38

 

 

Between structure and metamorphosis, Schiaparelli’s robe à la transformation stages a dialogue between the classical and the surreal. A sheath dress anchors the form, while a wrap-around bodice extends into panels that fall from the shoulders, unfolding into a cape-like silhouette.

 

The construction is an act of illusion—what begins as a gesture of wrapping becomes an apparition of wings, shadow, or armor. Schiaparelli’s genius lies not in ornament but in the gesture itself: the mutable contour, the garment’s quiet capacity to become other.

 

Born in the interwar atelier, this piece reflects the designer’s fascination with transformation—between day and evening, body and drapery, elegance and enigma. It stands less as couture than as choreography, poised between concealment and revelation.

 

 

 

Inquire.

 

 

 

 

CONDITION

• Mint •
Virtually no wear, in most cases refers to a vintage garment that has not been worn, may include original tags, and can be referred to as “deadstock.”
• Excellent •
Shows hardly any signs of wear.
• Very Good •
Shows normal signs of wear with some minor visible problems but will not detract from wearability of the garment.
• Good •
Vintage garment has obvious flaws and can use mending.
• Fair •
The garment is most likely not wearable, but could serve as an inspiration or study piece.

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